MI SoundBoard

Safe and Sound Feb 21, 2025

Kent ISD’s Director of Safety and Security, Sean Burns, returns to the podcast to share insights on the district’s proactive approach to school safety. Discover how reunification drills prepare schools for emergencies and why a shared language between first responders and the district is crucial for effective communication and response.

The Power of Your Words Feb 07, 2025

This episode of MI SoundBoard celebrates one of the annual achievements in Michigan public education. Tune in to hear from the inspiring 2025-26 Michigan High School Principal of the Year, Adam Lancto, as he shares his journey and the lasting impact he's made on the students of Grandville High School.

Your Voice, Our Priorities Jan 24, 2025

After every election year, MASB’s Government Relations team collaborates with members to shape a focused set of priorities for the upcoming two-year legislative session. In this episode, join Director of Government Relations Jennifer Smith as we explore how MASB members contribute to this critical decision-making process and delve into the key priorities that will guide our advocacy efforts over the next two years.

A New Year for Superintendents Jan 08, 2025

Kick off the new year with insight and inspiration! In our regular State of the Superintendency episode, we explore the latest trends shaping Michigan’s school superintendent landscape. Join us as we sit down with Greg Sieszputowski, M.Ed., Director of Leadership Development and Executive Search Services, and Jay Bennett, M.Ed., Assistant Director of Executive Search Services. Together, we’ll discuss how school boards can foster a productive, collaborative environment with both new and experienced superintendents—setting the stage for a successful year ahead!

Supercharged Leadership: Michigan's Superintendent of the Year Dec 11, 2024

Our annual conversation with the Superintendent of the Year is back, and it's one you won’t want to miss! Join us as Bangor Township Schools Superintendent Matthew Schmidt shares the creative ways he’s helping students reach their potential and creating a productive school culture.

Taking the Next Steps Nov 22, 2024

The elections are over, and you have a few new faces at the board table. What now? Our guest on this episode of MISoundBoard is none other than MASB’s own Brad Banasik to answer common questions you may have.

The Bottom Line is Students Nov 08, 2024

In this episode, we talk with Steve Colón, CEO of Bottom Line, a national organization that helps students from under-resourced communities succeed in college. Steve explains Bottom Line’s mission and shares how they support students in reaching their goals.

Excellence in Assistance Oct 25, 2024

Since 2005, the SET SEG Foundation has been making a positive impact on Michigan students through a variety of charitable initiatives and grants. As a proud partner of the Foundation, we’re excited to welcome their Executive Director, Molly Mellema, to this episode of MI SoundBoard. Molly shares about the foundation’s current programs and talks to Don about securing funding and resources to support students across the state.

setseg.org/foundation

The Importance of Succession Planning Oct 11, 2024

In addition to the shortage of teachers, districts are also experiencing a lack of applicants for business official positions. Bob Dwan, Executive Director of the Michigan School Business Officials, joins Don to discuss how current district employees can take proactive steps in succession planning.

Being Schooled by AI Sep 27, 2024

AI has become a central topic in conversations about not just public education but all aspects of our lives, and it’s a discussion that’s here to stay. On today’s episode, we’re joined by Aaron Baughman, Northville Public Schools' Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services, who has been integrating new AI tools into the district’s classrooms. Tune in to explore the exciting possibilities—and important precautions—surrounding this transformative technology.

Board Elections 101 Sep 13, 2024

With school board elections just around the corner, what should you be paying attention to? MASB’s Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy Brad Banasik, J.D. returns for this episode of MI SoundBoard to answer some of the most pressing questions he's been fielding and offer crucial insights to navigate this important period.

Principal Principles Aug 23, 2024

In this episode of MI SoundBoard, we sit down with Jon Wilcox, Principal of Petoskey Middle School and the 2024 Michigan Principal of the Year. Discover the journey and impactful experiences that led to his recognition. Tune in to hear firsthand why Jon is celebrated as a leader in education.

Life Lessons from the President Aug 09, 2024

In this episode, Don sits down with James Johnson, the newly appointed president of the MASB Board of Directors and a key figure from Carman-Ainsworth Community Schools. A dedicated advocate for public education and lifelong learning, James shares his insights and experiences from his long-standing commitment to education in his community.

A Cautionary Budget Jul 26, 2024

The 2024/2025 School Aid Budget has been signed into effect, and it’s creating a lot of questions. Join Director of Government Relations, Jennifer Smith, as she dissects the details and explores the background leading to this point.

A Leader Inspiring New Leaders Jul 12, 2024

In this episode, meet Kelley Cusmano, the 2024-25 Michigan Teacher of the Year and Student Leadership Teacher at Rochester High School. Discover the passions that drive her classroom and learn why her community nominated her for this prestigious award.

A New Age of Evaluation Jun 21, 2024

The Michigan legislature has spoken and there are new laws surrounding how you evaluate your superintendents. Hear from MASB’s own Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy Brad Banasik, J.D. along with Assistant Director of Executive Search Services Jay Bennett, M.Ed. about what you can expect from these changes.

Proactive Choices, Safe Schools Jun 07, 2024

School safety is a crucial topic that requires our constant attention to enable proactive measures against violence. In this episode, we welcome back Kim Root, Manager of the Office of School Safety, to discuss the current state of school safety and the valuable resources her department provides to school districts.

Filling Board Seats May 24, 2024

As it's an election year, will all of your seats be filled? Join Executive Director Don Wotruba and Assistant Director of Leadership Development Debbie Stair as they discuss the current state of boards of education in Michigan and why it's crucial to bring civic-minded individuals to the table.

Re-envisioning Michigan's Public Education System May 10, 2024

Join our Executive Director, Don Wotruba as he talks to Venessa Keesler, self-proclaimed data nerd and President and CEO of Launch Michigan, about the ways data, policy and advocacy can help Michigan students succeed.

Preschool to Postsecondary to Prosperity Apr 26, 2024

Learn more about the goals of the new MiLEAP Department with Acting Director Michelle Richard.

Behind the Curtain Apr 12, 2024

In this episode, Rick Dernberger, who serves on the MASB Board of Directors, Ottawa ISD board, and Zeeland Public Schools board, takes on the role of interviewer, putting MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, in the guest seat. They discuss the various services and benefits offered by MASB, the importance of ongoing education for board members, the history of the organization and more.

Shaping Special Education Mar 29, 2024

Join us for a discussion on the evolving landscape of special education with Abby Cypher, the Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Administrators of Special Education. We will cover topics such as funding changes and their impacts on both special and general education budgets, the role of paraeducators, and training programs.

Game On: Podcasting in Schools Mar 15, 2024

In this episode, we welcome Cedar Springs Superintendent Scott Smith along with high school students Evan Mattson and Ian VanderLugt. They provide an inside look at their unique podcast and video gaming collaboration, which bridges the gap between students and administration. We also explore the impact of social media and content creation on today's youth. Tune in to discover how open dialogue and collaboration are shaping the future of learning.

From Local to National Impact Feb 23, 2024

Discover the crucial role that national organizations play in shaping public education. In this episode, we're joined by Don Hubler, who shares his journey from serving on a local school board to being a member of the Macomb ISD board, MASB Board of Directors, and president-elect of the National School Boards Association.

Your Questions, Our Answers Feb 09, 2024

Join Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, as he addresses insightful questions on a range of topics, including the MASB Board of Directors nomination process, the protocol for hiring superintendents, and more.

Bizarre Bargaining Season Jan 26, 2024

We sit down with Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy Brad Banasik, J.D. to talk about the changes happening to labor relations and what you can expect this bargaining season.

New Year, New MELG Jan 12, 2024

With a new calendar year underway, we look ahead to what 2024 may bring for Michigan public education. Joining us are Executive Directors Tina Kerr, Ph.D. from the Michigan Association of Superintendents & Administrators, Robert Dwan, CFO, SFO from Michigan School Business Officials and Wendy Zdeb from the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals.

Michigan Superintendent of the Year 2024 Dec 08, 2023

Join Don as he sits down with the 2024 Michigan Superintendent of the Year, Dr. Jeffrey Collier from Saginaw ISD to discuss how it feels to be the first ISD superintendent to receive this award and about the important services and support ISDs can provide to their communities.

AI Evolution in Education: A Boardroom Odyssey Nov 24, 2023

In this episode, join Executive Director Don Wotruba, as he engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Jamey Fitzpatrick, President and CEO of Michigan Virtual, and Ken Dirkin, their Senior Director of MVLRI. Together, they delve into the implications of AI on public schools and student education. The conversation unravels the potential shifts, challenges, and opportunities that AI presents and explores actionable insights for school board members to proactively shape policies in response to this evolving landscape.

Conversations With Michigan's Teacher of the Year Nov 10, 2023

Join us in this insightful episode as we sit down with the 2023-24 Michigan Teacher of the Year, Candice Jackson to discuss the crucial role of involving parents in their children's education and gain a firsthand perspective on the experiences of a minority teacher in the state.

It's a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood Oct 27, 2023

Take a listen to what you can expect at ALC 2023 when Executive Director Don Wotruba sits down with keynote speakers Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski. They talk about their book, When You Wonder, You’re Learning, and how the lessons from Mister Rogers are still valid today.

You can also listen to their own podcast, Remaking Tomorrow, about engaging and equitable learning.

Building a Safer Tomorrow Oct 13, 2023

Join Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE as he speaks with the superintendent of Kent ISD Ron Koehler along with their Director of Safety and Security Sean Burns about the importance of planning ahead and sharing resources to keep our schools safe.

Literacy First Sep 20, 2023

Listen as MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE talks to Kevin Stotts, President of Talent First about how they are encouraging communities to work collectively on building literacy and not leaving it all on the shoulders of educators.

The Business of Schools Sep 06, 2023

Join MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba CAE as he speaks to new Michigan School Business Officials Executive Director Bob Dwan CFO SFO about the importance of school business offices and how MSBO works to support them.

New MASB Board of Directors President Kathleen Moore Aug 25, 2023

Join Don to learn more about our 2023-2024 MASB Board of Directors President Kathleen Moore.

Boards That Learn Together, Lead Together Aug 09, 2023

Join MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba as he talks with Assistant Director of Leadership Development Debbie Stair about how boards are more effective when they ask good questions, work towards their common goals and learn together.

A Sense of Belonging Jul 21, 2023

When students don't feel safe in their environment, it can impact their mental health, which in turn impacts their learning. In this episode, we speak with Brooke Davis, LMSW, Director of Diversity, Equity and Mental Health Services at Kenowa Hills Public Schools. We discuss the importance of mental health support for students and what board members can do to ensure that all students feel safe, supported, and able to be themselves at school.

Davis will present on Mental Health Through the Lens of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Social-Emotional Learning at the upcoming 2023 Summer Institute on Friday, Aug. 11.

Just Keep Searching Jul 07, 2023

Continuity, leadership and the way boards and superintendents handle turnover are important to high student achievement. Join Don and special guests Director of Leadership Development and Executive Search Services Greg Sieszputowski, M.Ed. and Assistant Director of Executive Search Services Jay Bennett, M.Ed. to talk about these topics and more, as they discuss the State of the Superintendency in Michigan.

The Robot Ate My Homework! Jun 14, 2023

How can school districts model appropriate use of AI technologies for their students? Dr. Don Killingbeck of Hemlock Public Schools joins the podcast to talk about how his district uses artificial intelligence tools.

The Student Mental Health Crisis May 26, 2023

How can school districts support students and address growing mental health concerns? In this episode, Managing Director of Strategic Alliances for TRAILS Lauren Kazee joins us to discuss programs and solutions districts can implement to “Transform Research Into Action to Improve the Lives of Students.”

Meet the 2023 Principal of the Year May 12, 2023

Principal Tony Koski is passionate about celebrating the students, staff, and parents of Northville High School. Join us as we learn more about the 2023 Principal of the Year.

Keep It Civil Not Civil War Apr 21, 2023

In the midst of high-polarization and politicization, it’s become more important than ever to create space for civil discourse. What does that really mean? This episode explores how to engage others in constructive ways that don’t require consensus but openness and mutual respect. Greg Warsen, Padnos/Sarosik Endowed Professor of Civil Discourse at Grand Valley, offers perspectives and guidance for school officials.

Sharpening Board Member Skills Apr 07, 2023

Being a successful school board member takes a wide range of skills and understanding. To better support board members, MASB offers a number of classes that focus on the most essential information and practices for governing with excellence. In this episode, we talk with MASB’s own Certification Manager and Instructional Designer, Amy Rucker about opportunities for board member growth.

Hot Topics on K-12 Legislation Mar 24, 2023

The Michigan Legislature has a number of public education bills being acted on and considered. Hear from Sen. Dayna Polehanki about those that could most-greatly impact Michigan school districts.

Budgeting Season Underway Mar 10, 2023

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer presented her 2023-2024 budget to the Legislature on Feb. 8, 2023. Beth Bullion, M.P.A., Director for the Office of Education for the State Budget Office and Stephanie O'Dea, M.P.A., K-12 Education Policy Advisor for Gov. Gretchen Whitmer join us to discuss some highlights of the proposed budget and how it supports an equitable and exceptional education for all students.

Boundless Support Feb 24, 2023

Michigan schools aren’t one-size-fits-all, and that means that it takes a team of advocates to represent their voices and needs. It’s no wonder that there are numerous organizations centered around serving and advocating for their member districts. In this episode, Executive Director of the Michigan Alliance for Student Opportunity, Peter Spadafore, joins us to discuss how their organization supports districts with the greatest educational needs who have historically been underserved by the educational system.

Strategies for Success Feb 10, 2023

Building and strengthening the board-superintendent relationship is one of the most important aspects of effective governance and with significant turnover in both areas, it’s no easy task. In this episode, Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators Executive Director Tina Kerr, Ph.D. joins us to discuss strategies for strengthening relationships, working together cohesively and ways forward.

“New Beginnings” Feb 10, 2023

Representation at the national level has always been important to Michigan school board members and MASB. In this episode, we talk with new Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer John Heim, Ph.D. from the National School Boards Association about his background and how the association is moving forward and pivoting to serve its members.

Ringing in 2023 With MELG Jan 13, 2023

With a new calendar year underway, we look ahead to what 2023 may bring for Michigan public education. Joining us are Executive Directors Tina Kerr, Ph.D. from the Michigan Association of Superintendents & Administrators, David Martell, CPA, CFO from Michigan School Business Officials and Wendy Zdeb from the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals.

A U.P. Perspective Dec 23, 2022

It’s our annual conversation with the Michigan Teacher of the Year—Nanette Hanson from Escanaba Public Schools is the 2022-2023 recipient. She shares a U.P. connection with MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE and talks about her surprise at being nominated as well as her strong belief in building relationships with her students’ parents and social-emotional learning.

"Stop. Collaborate and Listen" Dec 09, 2022

There are many organizations in the Michigan public education arena. We talk with the new Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Intermediate School Administrators, John Severson, Ph.D., about how we collaborate and listen at the state level, as well as how ISDs and locals work together for the common good of their communities.

Remember This Superintendent Nov 25, 2022

We had the pleasure of speaking to the 2023 Michigan Superintendent of the Year Monica Merritt, Ed.D. from Plymouth-Canton Community Schools. She shared some personal and district successes along with how she’s handled contentious issues. From her experiences, she hopes any person or district can take the example she intentionally (or unintentionally) sets and use it in their lives or community.

Achieving a Future Beyond Imagination Nov 11, 2022

Michigan’s students deserve all the help, direction and opportunities they can get in education, employment and life. Youth Solutions, a nonprofit organization based in Benton Harbor, has been providing programs and services to equip young people with the skills to overcome barriers and succeed. Director of Strategic Operations Sonya Blanzy joins us in this episode to shed light on their mission and activities.

because I said I would. Oct 21, 2022

We live in a society that often does not value the importance of keeping our promises. It’s too easy to say, “I’ll get to it later.” Alex Sheen, #MASBALC 2022 General Session speaker and the Founder of because I said I would., a social movement and nonprofit dedicated to the betterment of humanity through promises made and kept, talks with us about how his organization is aiming to make a difference, including with kids, by teaching about self-control, honesty and accountability.

Ready Student-Player One Oct 07, 2022

It’s one of the largest industries in the world and a rising league-based school club in your district—Esports is a hit with Michigan students. In this episode, we talk with Ryan Cayce, Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals’ Director of Digital Learning & Resources/Director of Esports, on how a district can get involved as well as how this team-based extracurricular is beneficial to a district’s students and its finances.

Dignity is so “Fetch” Sep 23, 2022

What is the difference between respect and dignity and why is it important in our classrooms? Rosalind Wiseman, Cofounder of Cultures of Dignity and one of the 2022 General Session speakers at MASB’s Annual Leadership Conference, tells us how we can shift the way we think about young people’s physical and emotional wellbeing. She is also the author of “Queen Bees and Wannabes,” the inspiration behind the movie and Broadway show, “Mean Girls.”

Title IX, Definitions and Free Speech, Oh My! Sep 09, 2022

A new school year brings known and unknown legal hurdles. Brad Banasik, J.D., MASB Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy, joins us on the show to talk about what he thinks all districts should pay attention to for 2022-2023.

Lifting Students Up Aug 26, 2022

How do we engage our student leaders so they can be their best selves? Matt Alley, M.A., Associate Director of Student Services and Nina Davis, M.A., Associate Director of Member Services and Engagement at the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals talk to us about the services they offer for Michigan students including a summer camp focused on leadership.

The Antithesis of “Workin’ for a Livin’” Aug 12, 2022

In the early 1980s, Huey Lewis sang “I'm taking what they giving 'cause I'm working for a livin'. . .” With all the post-secondary opportunities available, this hopefully is no longer the case. In this episode, Cindy Kangas, Executive Director of the Capital Area Manufacturing Council, talks with us about how CAMC and similar organizations are partnering with school districts and manufacturing companies to show students career path options they can be excited about.

“There’s a Leader in Me” Jul 22, 2022

MASB’s leadership changes over this month with Steve Hyer from Clarkston Community Schools stepping up to serve as Board President. He joins us to talk about what he is looking forward to this year and also shares how he got into board service and how it has influenced other areas of his life.

“We’re All in This Together” Jul 08, 2022

Parental involvement is integral to a strong and successful school environment. We spoke with Marcy Dwyer from the Michigan Parent Teacher Association about how parents can get involved in their district along with what the Michigan PTA has been up to recently and the resources they provide.

*This episode was recorded before the Let MI Kids Learn coalition decided not to submit signatures to get on the ballot for the November 2022 election. As noted in this podcast, they can still submit signatures and, once approved by the Board of Canvassers, the initiatives could go before the Legislature for action instead of being voted on by all Michigan voters.

Developing a Culture of Safety Jun 24, 2022

It’s a conversation we wish we didn’t have to continually have—how do we keep our kids safe at school? In this episode, Kim Root, Manager of the Michigan Office of School Safety, talks about creating a culture of proactive practices and how the OSS can help.

Are You Ready? Jun 10, 2022

Superintendent turnover seems to be increasing each year, but the number of candidates to fill those roles isn’t keeping up. Greg Sieszputowski, M.Ed., MASB’s Director of Leadership Development and Executive Search Services, along with Jay Bennett, M.Ed., MASB’s Assistant Director of Executive Search Services, talk about some of the trends they are seeing and how a district can better plan for and train future leaders.

Are You Blind, Ref?! May 27, 2022

Sports officiating has become a more high-pressured career and recruiting is more challenging than ever. We spoke with Lowell A. Winne Jr., President of the Southwest Michigan Officials Association and registered official with the Michigan High School Athletic Association, about the promise he sees in the field and his personal experiences as an official.

Show Me the Money! May 13, 2022

It’s almost always a challenging process to work through, but budgeting is crucial to a successful school year. We spoke with Superintendent Glenn Maleyko, Ph.D. and Executive Director of Business and Operations Tom Wall from Dearborn Public Schools about the successful tools and strategies they have been using and the national recognition their process has received.

Michigan’s Voice at the National Level Apr 22, 2022

What is the National School Boards Association and what impact does it have on the bigger public education picture? We talk with Don Hubler, MASB Board member and recently elected Secretary-Treasurer for the NSBA Board of Directors, about the direction the organization is headed in, Michigan’s role through elected representation and active involvement, and overall engagement at the federal level.

DeVos’ SOS Will Siphon Our Schools Apr 08, 2022

There are two ballot petitions being circulated throughout the state that would take hundreds of millions of dollars away from Michigan public schools during a historic teacher shortage. Executive Director, Don Wotruba, CAE speaks with Casandra Ulbrich, Ph.D. who is co-chair of the For MI Kids, For Our Schools initiative which was formed to ensure the public is accurately informed about the intent of DeVos-backed ballot proposals that threaten public education across Michigan.

Safety in Schools Mar 25, 2022

The focus on safety is always top of mind for Michigan school districts, but even more so after the tragedy in Oxford last fall. In this episode, we are joined by Jason Russell, Founder and CEO of Secure Education Consultants. He shares strategies to help districts be prepared and possibly prevent an emergency situation in their buildings.

Budgeting for our Children’s Future Mar 11, 2022

The proposed budget impacting the 2022-2023 school year has been released along with a supplemental for the current year. In this episode, we have the Director for the Office of Education for the State Budget Office Beth Bullion, M.P.A. and Policy Advisor to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer Michelle Richard, Ed.M. with the details on how the Governor is recommending these funds be allocated.

An Election Year Like No Other Feb 25, 2022

We speak with Brad Banasik, J.D., MASB’s Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy, about this year’s school board elections, including the legal ins and outs, how to file, deadlines and recruitment for open seats.

Rebuilding the Teacher Pipeline Feb 11, 2022

In this episode, we speak with Adam Zemke, President of Launch Michigan, about the teacher shortage crisis in Michigan and around the nation. He also shares parts of Launch's proposal to the Legislature and Governor about ways to incentivize and improve one of our most valued professions.

The Meaning of Service Jan 21, 2022

We had an opportunity to speak with Susan Baskett, Anupam Chugh Sidhu and Holly Spencer, who are serving on the MASB Board of Directors in the Member At-Large positions that are nominated by the MASB President and approved by the Board to fill representation gaps. They share their background, why they decided to run for their respective school boards and the role they play in MASB leadership.

A New Year With MELG Jan 07, 2022

In our first 2022 episode, we sit down with the executive directors in the Michigan Education Leadership Group and talk about what they anticipate the new year will bring to public education in Michigan.

It’s Our 100th Episode! Dec 10, 2021

On this 100th episode of MI SoundBoard, Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE takes a look back at some of his favorite episodes from the podcast:

Nov. 2, 2017 / Are Appointed Boards the Future? Our First Episode!

Feb. 23, 2018 / Blazing a Trail as Michigan Teacher of the Year

Sept. 13, 2019 / Banning Phones: One School District's Story

July 24, 2020 / Flipping the Script

Aug. 7, 2020 / Moving Equity Forward

A Collective Effort Nov 26, 2021

In this episode, we get a chance to talk with the newest Michigan Superintendent of the Year, Dania Bazzi, Ph.D. from Ferndale Public Schools, about her path to being recognized along with her collaborative, hands-on approaches to teacher evaluation and creating a trusting, risk-taking staff team to improve student achievement.

Finding Narratives in the Numbers Nov 12, 2021

As district leaders, we use data in countless ways. The connections we make (or fail to make) affect the way we think and feel about that data. In this episode, we spoke with Kenda Lawson, M.Ed., Founder/CEO of Owls Education, about how using data in the right ways can influence how our students learn for the better.

“What’s Love Got to do With It?” Oct 22, 2021

As leaders in their district, school board members face many challenges. We talk with Colonel Arthur Athens, who will be presenting at MASB’s Annual Leadership Conference next month, about his storied career and his thoughts on leading ethically, humbly, confidently and, to some extent, with love.

Support for Student Needs Oct 08, 2021

Staff in districts around the state have taken on more and more ways of supporting their students inside and outside of the classroom, but what if they didn’t have to handle those extra lifts? Mallory DePrekel, M.N.M., Executive Director and President of Communities In Schools Michigan, joins us on this episode to talk about how CIS Michigan can help with student needs.

Budgeting From the Board Perspective Sep 24, 2021

Joining us on this episode is Deputy Executive Director Bob Dwan, CFO, SFO from the Michigan School Business Officials to talk with MASB Executive Director, Don Wotruba on the importance of having talented business officials in your district administration, but also knowing a board member’s role when it comes to budgeting.

Improving the Well-Being of our Teachers Sep 10, 2021

In this episode, MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba talks about what can be done to address the stresses our teachers face and ways to change the negative cultural perspective of this field of work. Joining him is Rebekah Schipper, Executive Director of Opportunity Thrive, an organization aimed at helping develop teachers and solving burnout.

A New Season of High School Sports Aug 27, 2021

Mark Uyl, Executive Director of the Michigan High School Athletic Association, joins us on this episode where we reflect on how COVID-19 impacted high school athletics and what the hopes and goals are for the coming year.

Know Better Do Better Aug 14, 2021

MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE talks with 2021-2022 Michigan Teacher of the Year Leah Porter from Holt Public Schools on a wide range of topics, including her focus on the importance of equity and accessibility in today’s classroom.

Pivoting for the Future of Public Education Jul 23, 2021

How can hybrid, online or face-to-face learning best serve the needs of Michigan students? In this episode, we are joined by leaders from Michigan Association of Superintendents & Administrators, Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals and Michigan School Business Officials to reflect on lessons learned over the past year and discuss what the school year ahead may look like.

At What Age Should Public Education Begin? Jul 09, 2021

How far should districts go in the early childhood space? We sit down with Edward Manuszak, Superintendent of Dundee Community Schools, who has made this a focus for his district and those in Monroe County through programs, grants, involvement with national organizations and more.

Federal Funding Spending Options Jun 25, 2021

What are ways school districts can spend the large amount of federal funds that have been approved, as well as what are realistic expectations and outcomes? We talk with Kyle Guerrant, Deputy Superintendent of Finance and Operations at the Michigan Department of Education, about the possibilities.

Helping Students Thrive Post-Pandemic Jun 11, 2021

Now that the Student Recovery Advisory Council of Michigan has shared its recommendations, we sit down again with Chair Kevin Polston, Ed.S., also the Superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools, to talk through the MI Blueprint for Comprehensive Student Recovery.

State of the Superintendency 2021 May 21, 2021

This past school year has been like no other and its impact has carried over, both planned and unplanned, to the top administrative position in some districts. Hear from MASB's Executive Search Service staff—Greg Sieszputowski, M.Ed. and Jay Bennett, M.Ed.—about what’s happening in the field, recent trends and more related to superintendent positions in Michigan.

Tackling the Equity Conversation May 07, 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated and brought more clarity around the equity issues faced by schools across the country. Verjeana McCotter-Jacobs, Esq., Chief Transformation Officer at the National School Boards Association, talks with us about what our society’s responsibilities are to children to ensure they are seen and heard, as well as provide them with the resources they need to be global citizens. Additionally, some reflections on the role school boards play and the tools NSBA provides to help move these conversations forward.

Charting a Positive Course for Michigan Elections Apr 23, 2021

In this episode, we learn more about Michigan’s new Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission and how it will help shape future elections in our state. To help educate us on this topic, we speak with Commissioner Rebecca Szetela, Vice Chair of the MICRC.

What to Know: Growing Cybersecurity Threats Apr 09, 2021

Cybersecurity for any organization, but specifically school districts, is an area of growing concern. In this episode, we talk with SET SEG's Steve Privasky about ransomware, other cybersecurity threats and precautions school districts can take to protect from these attacks.

Engaging at the Federal Level Mar 26, 2021

In this episode, Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE and Director of Government Relations Jennifer Smith talk with Chip Slaven, Chief Advocacy Officer for the National School Boards Association, and get an in-depth view of what's happening policy- and legislation-wise in Washington, D.C. as well as the latest from NSBA, including details about this year's Advocacy Institute.

Returning to School: Keeping Students in Mind Mar 12, 2021

As students transition back to school buildings this spring and next fall there are many factors to take into consideration for their health and well-being. In this episode, we talk with Brandy Johnson, Education Workforce Policy Advisor for Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, and Kevin Polston, superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools and chair of the Student Recovery Advisory Council.

Continuing the Conversation on Budget Feb 26, 2021

In this episode, we are joined by Beth Bullion, Director of the Office of Education for the Michigan State Budget Office and MASB's Director of Government Relations Jennifer Smith. We continue the dialogue around budget and what schools can expect from this perspective for the year ahead.

Forecasting: What Lies Ahead in the Legislature Feb 12, 2021

We sit down and discuss Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's latest budget, how that might impact public education, our 2021-2022 Legislative Priorities and other predictions in this episode of MI SoundBoard with MASB Director of Government Relations Jennifer Smith.

Children and Youth Institute: A Resource Jan 22, 2021

Michigan State University Extension aims to help people improve their lives. The Children and Youth Institute within MSU Extension is focused on programming for those from birth to age 19, including Michigan 4-H. In this episode we sit down with two of CYI's leadership to discuss resources for students and schools in Michigan, whether they're in a hybrid or fully remote environment.

MELG Meets Again Jan 08, 2021

We kick off the New Year with leaders from the Michigan Education Leadership Group, which includes the Michigan Association of Superintendents & Administrators, Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals and Michigan School Business Officials for a roundtable discussion on trends, forecasts, the state of public education and much more.

Ingredients for Michigan Teacher of the Year Dec 25, 2020

When Oak Park School District teacher Owen Bondono received the phone call letting him know that he was named 2020 Michigan Teacher of the Year, he was speechless. In this episode, Owen joins us to talk about the selection process, the school district in which he works, COVID-19 and much more.

A State Board of Education Primer Dec 11, 2020

Who is the Michigan Department of Education? What is the role of the State Board of Education? With many new board members taking their seats in January we speak with State Board of Education President Casandra Ulbrich, Ph.D., (D-Dearborn) to talk about all of this and more.

Title IX: Gender Equity Across the Board Nov 27, 2020

The federal regulations put in place by Title IX are about more than just sports. How do the changes that went into effect in August 2020 affect school districts? What are the steps that should be taken to protect students, employees and the district itself particularly when it comes to sexual harassment? We cover all of this and more in a conversation with MASB's veteran legal counsel.

Onboarding Your New Board Members Nov 13, 2020

MASB estimates that several hundred newly elected Michigan school board members will take their seats as a result of the November election. What does this look like for recruitment efforts—what worked and what didn't? How can districts onboard and orient these new additions to their governance team? We sit down with two veteran board members in this episode of MI SoundBoard to chat about all of this and more!

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